Christine Gilbert, Her Majesty's Chief Inspector, launched the report, Twelve outstanding providers of work-based learning, to coincide with the Association of Learning Providers' annual conference (14-15 July).

It showcases outstanding learning and skills providers that excel at providing Apprenticeships, NVQs and other VQs for young people and adults.

"These providers display a real drive to inspire, challenge, and support young people and adult learners," said Ms Gilbert.

"While their paths to success may vary, they have each made an important contribution to addressing the critical issue of developing skills for employment, while also helping employers to compete in a tough economic environment.

"This report identifies some common success factors, profiles successful providers and highlights practical examples of outstanding provision. I hope others will be inspired by the good practice included in this report."

According to Ofsted, top providers work hard to ensure the technical skills and industry experience of staff is continuously updated.

Also central to their success is the ability to match training programmes to the demands of employers and forge strong relationships with business.

Ofsted's twelve outstanding training providers are:

• Aspire Training Team
• British Gas Energy Academy
• Andrew Collinge Training
• Davidson Training UK
• Gateshead College
• Hospitality Training Partnership
• Intraining, Skillnet
• Training Services 2000
• Warwickshire College
• Zenos
• 5E

The report will be available from noon via the following link: www.ofsted.gov.uk/publications/100112

Susannah Fairbairn